Scientists at the University of Oxford have discovered storing fat in your bottom, rather than stomach, cuts levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol, as well as raising levels of the “good” HDL cholesterol, which protects against hardening of the arteries. Their review, published in the International Journal of Obesity, showed the health benefi ts of an ample derriere extend even to cutting the risk of diabetes.
Professor Jimmy Bell, head of metabolic and molecular imaging at Hammersmith Hospitals NHS Trust, explains, “Fat comes in ‘good’ and ‘bad’ forms. Gluteofemoral fat stored around the bottom seems to act as a buffer, mopping up inflammatory fats that could have a dangerous effect elsewhere.
“Because the fat around your backside breaks down more slowly than belly fat, it produces fewer inflammatory cytokines – chemicals which have been linked to diabetes, heart disease and obesity. Burning off too much of this healthier form of fat isn’t good for you.” However, excess fat around the middle can have severe health implications, so getting rid of it is important.
Will eating porridge get your pregnant?
Scientists think porridge oats could help boost your fertility. In a six-month study, women trying to conceive – who are all overweight and have polycystic ovary syndrome, which reduces fertility – are following either a low-calorie diet (reducing their intake by 500 calories a day) or a plant-based diet containing foods that release their energy slowly.
“Slow-release” foods, such as oats, whole grains and beans, are thought to help reduce insulin levels. High levels are thought to contribute to polycystic ovary syndrome. “We believe both groups will see improvements in weight and fertility,” say researchers at the University of South Carolina.
**Try this:
**A good exercise for a toned décolletage is the diagonal pull-up. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, positionboth arms to the left side of the body and hold a bottle of water in each hand. Keep your left arm still, pull your right arm across your body to the right side of your hips and then raise the arm upwards so that it forms a straight diagonal line with your left arm. Repeat 25 times each side.
